obsessive-compulsive

[uh b-ses-iv-kuh m-puhl-siv]

adjective

of or relating to a personality style characterized by perfectionism, indecision, conscientiousness, concern with detail, rigidity, and inhibition.
Psychiatry. of or relating to a neurosis characterized by persistent intrusion of unwanted thoughts (obsessions) or the performance of actions, as repeated hand-washing, that one is unable to stop (compulsions).

noun

a person having such a personality style.

Origin of obsessive-compulsive

First recorded in 1925–30

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for obsessive-compulsive

Contemporary Examples of obsessive-compulsive

But it looks like it was created by crazed person with obsessive-compulsive behavior.
Red Tape Is Strangling Good Samaritans
Philip K. Howard
December 27, 2014
“Obsessive-compulsive tendencies really help to enhance abilities,” Okun said.
Why Tourette’s May Be Tim Howard’s Secret Weapon on the Field
Michael Daly
July 3, 2014
He noted that people with the condition often have obsessive-compulsive tendencies.
Why Tourette’s May Be Tim Howard’s Secret Weapon on the Field
Michael Daly
July 3, 2014
“True Detective,” Obsessive-Compulsive Noir, and “Twin Peaks” by Jimmy So.
ICYMI: Best of The Beast This Week
The Daily Beast
March 16, 2014
It is possible to name an ancestor to this obsessive-compulsive noir: David Lynch.
‘True Detective,’ Obsessive-Compulsive Noir, and ‘Twin Peaks’
Jimmy So
March 14, 2014

obsessive-compulsive in Medicine

obsessive-compulsive

adj.

Having a tendency to dwell on unwanted thoughts or perform certain repetitious rituals, especially as a defense against anxiety from unconscious conflicts.

n.

A person who exhibits obsessive-compulsive behavior.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.